Newcastle United could be boosted by captain Fabricio Coloccini for this weekend's Premier League match with Aston Villa.

The Argentine centre-back has been out of action since being forced off during the Toon's 1-0 defeat by West Brom on New Year's Day.

A knee problem has been to blame for the 32-year-old's absence, and in the six weeks since Alan Pardew's side have seen their form dip dramatically, including their current run of three straight defeats.